Using Zener as a Voltage Regulator

Zener Diode:
Zener diode is made of P and N type semiconductor materials. It is made of silicone. They are diodes that keep the voltage applied to their ends constant. Zener diodes do not pass current up to a certain voltage value. This voltage is called the breakdown or zener voltage (Vz). When properly connected to a circuit they work like a normal call.

When the connection is made in the reverse direction, they do not conduct until the breakdown voltage -Vz-. When the breaking voltage is exceeded, a current begins to flow. Zener diodes are reverse connected to the circuit.

Especially in power supplies, they have a function such as keeping the voltage constant when high current output occurs at the output of the power supply.

An example connection shape of the Zener diode is as shown in the picture. Although the voltage Vin is higher than the voltage Vz, the voltage at the output of the circuit is kept constant at the voltage Vz.